Aussie swimmers raring to go in London

Australian swimmers Ahmed Kelly and Grant 'Scooter' Patterson have overcome tremendous adversity to make it to the London Paralympics.

On the eve of the Games the duo share their excitement with ABC reporter Phil Williams.

Kelly grew up in a Baghdad orphanage with significant disabilities in all four limbs but since adopted into an Australian family in 2000 has shown a determination to take on everything from Australian rules football to international swimming competitions.

Patterson was born with a rare form of dwarfism but has never shied away from anything and has been training for the Paralympics for five years.

"I can't wait to start racing,'' Patterson said at the athletes' welcoming ceremony in London.

"I've been training for the last five years and it's all come down to the next five days."

Kelly said he had a challenging start to life in Baghdad but has been embraced by Australia and is making the most of his opportunities.

"I made it a vow that I was going to try and represent Australia and hopefully win gold or do something to pay back for their wonderful kindness," Kelly said.